Why does my cat sit on top of my fern?
Many cats see plants as a source of food and fun. Some may even consider plants as a litterbox. This is all normal behaviour for cats, especially indoor cats.
Unfortunately, these habits may become annoying to you and kill your plants. Deterring your cats and distracting their attention can keep your plants safe from their curious paws.
Different cats like different textures, or the feel of the fibre of the plant in their mouth. Please ensure that should your cat have a habit of playing or eating your plants, that the plants you keep is safe and will not cause her harm.
Different methods can be used to keep your cat out of your plants.
- Move plants to a safe location where your cat cannot reach or does not have access to, for example your bedroom.
- Hang your plants near a sunny window that is far enough out of reach to keep the leaves from tempting your cat’s paws.
- Cover the soil underneath the plant with rocks to allow you to water the plant while keeping it safe from your cat’s paws.
- Spray a cat deterrent, such as pine or lemon, which are known to repel cats.
- Decorate your house with plants that cats don’t like. Some types of plants are not only beautiful and purify the air, but also do not attract cats, for example the spider plant.
- Make sure your cat has enough toys.
Dr Letitia Swartz, veterinarian
